Cost-Effectiveness of Preventing Hip Fractures by Hip Protectors in Elderly Institutionalized Residents in Germany

ObjectiveTo determine the long-term cost-effectiveness of hip protector use in the prevention of hip fractures in elderly institutionalized residents in Germany compared to no prevention.MethodsA lifetime Markov decision model was developed using published data on costs and health outcomes. A societal and statutory health insurance perspective was adopted.ResultsFrom a societal/statutory health insurance perspective, use of hip protectors yields savings of 315 EURO/257 EURO and a gain of 0.13 quality-adjusted life years per person over lifetime.ConclusionHip protector use in elderly institutionalized residents in Germany is highly cost-effective.